Record-breaking sailor, Dame Ellen MacArthur, took to the London Stage today to launch her plans for the Round Britain 2017 project. The epic voyage, which will take place from May to September, is aimed at increasing awareness of the work done by the Trust, which supports young people recovering from cancer through sailing. The trip will reach the length and breadth of the UK, connecting young people and building on the positive moments during their recovery.
Speaking at the event, Dame Ellen said: “I’m here at the London Boat Show to launch the Round Britain 2017 project led by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust to take 100 young people in recovery from cancer and leukaemia sailing around Britain. It was great to be on the London Stage to launch the project and hear from some of the young people taking part – it was a really proud moment.”
Ellen continues: “The London Boat Show has been a part of my life for many years; I was first here in 1995 when I won the YJA Young Sailor of the Year Award. The Show is a great place to meet people and check out the latest boats and clothing as well as exploring how to get into the world of sailing.”
Hannah Spencer, 23 from Derby, one of the young people taking part in the 2017 project, comments: “I first joined the Round Britain trip in 2010 and am thrilled to be involved as first mate for this year. I’m passionate about giving the young people the very best experience that I had seven years ago.
Hannah concludes: “The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust has given me such a great platform to develop my sailing and team building skills as well as my confidence. Following my first trip in 2010, I was inspired to complete my RYA Competent Crew certificate and most recently my RYA Yachtmaster last year. I can’t wait to set sail with the team on May 20.”
Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust